\n<\/p>\n
Dr Sue Mann, national clinical director for women’s health, said: “Offering millions of women an alternative test they can do from the comfort of their own homes will be a game-changer \u2013 making it easier than ever for them to get tested.<\/p>\n
“There are lots of reasons that may stop women from getting their cervical screening \u2013 embarrassment, lack of time or worries about discomfort \u2013 and these kits provide a discreet and convenient option we hope will encourage more women to take up the life-saving test.”<\/p>\n
Health Secretary Yvette Cooper added: “Cervical cancer is preventable – but that’s why we want to make it as easy and convenient as possible for women to keep up with their screening.”<\/p>\n
The kits contain a swab, similar to a long cotton, bud which is used to collect a sample from the vagina.<\/p>\n
It is then sent back to the NHS and if high-risk HPV is found, individuals will be invited to book a follow-up cervical screening appointment.<\/p>\n
High-risk HPV increases the risk of cervical cancer, but it does not mean a woman will automatically develop it.<\/p>\n
Trials of the self-testing in London suggest it could lead to one in 10 women to come forward for screening \u2013 boosting uptake by around 400,000 a year.<\/p>\n
Other parts of the UK are also looking at introducing self-testing.<\/p>\n
Women aged 24 to 64 are invited for cervical screening every five years \u2013 or more frequently if HPV is detected.<\/p>\n
Through a combination of HPV vaccination, which is offered to teenagers, and improved screening, the NHS is hoping to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040.<\/p>\n
The NHS says cervical screening appointments with a clinician is still the best way to prevent cancer \u2013 and even if you have missed an appointment you can still come forward for one.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n